Fred M Ellis Memorial Campground

🌲 **Introduction / Overview**

Tucked away on the edge of the magnificent **Little Belt Mountains**, the **Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground** offers a distinctly rustic and secluded camping experience that speaks to the heart of Central Montana's outdoor heritage. This small, unique campground is especially noteworthy because it is located on **private property** but is generously maintained and open for public use, sitting just a short 1/8 of a mile outside the boundary of the **Lewis and Clark National Forest**. It is a testament to the local appreciation for access to the wild Montana landscape.

Positioned along the scenic **South Fork of the Judith River**, the campground serves as a quiet, no-frills basecamp for exploring the vast recreational opportunities of the Judith Basin. Its small size (typically featuring only 1-2 sites) ensures privacy and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect retreat for locals who prefer the sounds of the river and the quiet of the woods over the hustle of larger, more developed sites. The elevation is approximately 4,981 feet, placing you firmly in prime mountain country.

While the setting is beautiful, users should note that the journey to such a secluded spot can be rugged, as evidenced by customer feedback noting that the access road can be "horrid." This is the trade-off for the deep solitude found here, requiring preparation and patience from all visitors. It’s also worth recognizing the local history and attachment to this area, which once hosted a beloved family reunion site nearby—a reminder of how deeply ingrained these lands are in the local community fabric.

🗺️ **Location and Accessibility**

Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground is located near the rural community of Hobson, MT, within the expansive Judith Basin County. Its remote location places it deep into the mountainous landscape, making proper directions and vehicle readiness essential for Montana travelers.

Address (General Area):

Hobson, MT 59452, USA

Access Route:

The campground is situated approximately 25 miles from Highway 87 near Windham. Access typically involves turning onto MT-541, passing through the town of Utica, and then navigating about 14 miles on gravel roads (such as Pigeye Rd, which becomes South Fork Road). The remoteness is a feature, but it means road conditions, particularly the lengthy unpaved sections, can be rough, varying significantly with weather and seasonal maintenance. **High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.**

The Nearest Town:

Utica, MT, is the closest small community, though Hobson provides more essential services. Due to the travel time on gravel roads, all supplies, fuel, and necessities should be secured before leaving the main highways.

🛠️ **Services Offered**

The Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground embraces a rustic, minimalist model. The amenities provided are limited, consistent with a site intended for self-sufficient campers and adventurers.

• **Campsites:** Typically **1-2 sites** available, operating on a **first-come, first-served** basis. Reservations are not required.
• **Water:** **No water** is provided. Campers must pack in all drinking and cleaning water.
• **Restrooms:** **No restrooms** are available. Campers must be prepared for primitive sanitation practices, following Leave No Trace guidelines.
• **Fire:** At least one **established fire pit** is usually present, though travelers must verify and adhere to all current fire restrictions and bans enforced by the Forest Service.
• **Fee:** A small **fee of approximately $10** is generally required for use of the site.
• **Accessibility:** The site is noted as being **Handicap Accessible**.
• **Trailer Access:** **Trailer access is permitted**, though the long, rough access road should be considered before bringing large trailers or RVs.
• **Pets:** **Pets are allowed**, provided they are kept on a leash.
• **Cell Service:** **Cell phone coverage is non-existent** (0 of 10), ensuring a true unplugged experience.

✨ **Features / Highlights**

The Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground’s main draw is its location and the quality of the surrounding natural environment, making it an excellent hub for classic Montana outdoor recreation.

• **Direct River Access:** The campground runs along the **South Fork of the Judith River**, providing excellent opportunities for **stream fishing** and enjoying the tranquil sounds of moving water.
• **Trail Access:** It is located directly on the **C.M. Russell Trail**, a key feature for hikers, horseback riders, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the region named after the famous cowboy artist.
• **Little Belt Mountain Gateway:** Being on the edge of the Little Belt Mountains allows direct access to a plethora of **hiking, motorbiking, ATV, and hunting** opportunities within the nearby Lewis and Clark National Forest.
• **Unique Private/Public Status:** The fact that this resource is a private land site open for public use highlights a valued partnership, offering a quiet alternative to official Forest Service sites.
• **Seclusion and Quiet:** With a maximum of 1-2 sites and zero cell service, the Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground guarantees a high degree of **solitude and peace**, ideal for detoxing from technology and urban life.

📞 **Contact Information**

Since the campground is privately maintained but located near the National Forest boundary, visitors should direct inquiries regarding the area to the managing Forest Service Ranger District in the region.

Address (General Area):

Hobson, MT 59452, USA

Phone (Stanford Ranger District, as closest relevant contact):

(406) 566-2922

Note:

The site is open seasonally from **May 1 to October 1**. Always check with the Ranger District for up-to-date information on road access, fees, and safety warnings (especially for bears, which frequent the National Forest).

👍 **What is Worth Choosing: A Heritage of Wilderness and Access**

The **Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground** is undoubtedly **worth choosing** for the dedicated Montana camper who understands and respects the challenges of truly wild country. It is a location steeped in local history and appreciation for the outdoors, even while mourning the "loss of our Family Reunion Campground" nearby. This history adds a layer of depth and respect to the current camping experience.

You should choose this campground if your priority is **direct access to the South Fork of the Judith River** for fishing or immersion in the C.M. Russell Trail system. The appeal is the rare combination of accessibility (trailer access is noted) and intense seclusion (no cell service, rough roads). It’s an ideal spot for an angler seeking a quiet morning on the water, a hunter needing a remote basecamp, or a family looking to establish a new tradition in the wake of losing an old one.

Be aware that choosing this spot requires **full self-sufficiency**, especially concerning water and sanitation, and a willingness to navigate potentially poor road conditions. However, for those who embrace the grit and beauty of Montana’s rugged backcountry, the peaceful isolation and authentic wilderness access offered by the Fred M. Ellis Memorial Campground are unparalleled and highly rewarding.